Good news friends, we made it to May. Bad news: This is the month that not one, but two cicada broods will be emerging from the ground in the millions. I cannot wrap my brain around that number, but you better believe that I will be avoiding the outdoors as much as I possibly can (don’t worry, I gave you some indoor end-of-the-month options). From Star Wars to comedy, the vibes are strong this month. Stay safe out there.
Celebrate May the Fourth
Also known as Star Wars day, it seems like this event gets bigger every year. This year, The Spurlock Museum of World Cultures is hosting a Star Wars Day celebration. There will be light saber building, Jedi meditating, “choose your path” Jedi vs. Sith tours, a self guided exploration, and more. Cosplay is encouraged and all ages are welcome to attend.
Star Wars Day: May the Fourth be with you
Spurlock Museum of World Cultures
600 Gregory St.
Urbana
Sa May 4th, 1 to 4 p.m.
Free
Make your love permanent
The CU Flower house will be hosting a Mother’s Day Wine and Design night with a flower arranging tutorial, a glass of wine and a wine tasting, permanent jewelry opportunity, and a private shopping hour. You’ll need to buy tickets in advance, but as far as Mother’s Day presents go, I feel like this one covers all the bases, though I have some opinions on Mother’s Day presents that I’ll be sharing soon.
Mother’s Day Wednesday Wine & Design
The CU Flower House
2006 S Neil Street
Champaign
W May 8th, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
$95 for two tickets
See the peony flowers in peak bloom
Peony season at Allerton Park is such a beautiful part of spring. A weekend picnic is a great way to celebrate and see all the peony varieties in bloom. Your reservation includes two bottles of wine and a charcuterie board. Multiple times are available, but you have to register by May 10th.
Picnic with the Peonies
Allerton Park and Retreat Center
499 Old Timber Rd
Monticello
Sa May 18th + Su May 19th, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
$100 per eight person table
Be social and creative
The CU BIPOC Collective was formed for local artists and creatives who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color. If that’s you, come to the next event to explore the Independent Media Center, meet with creatives, create a collage, and enjoy some light refreshments. I attended the last event the collective hosted and please trust me, this group knows how to have a good time.
CU BIPOC Collective Meetup: IMC Tour and Collage Night
Independent Media Center
202 S Broadway Ave
Urbana
Tu May 21st, 5 to 7 p.m.
Free
Help crown a new champion
Yellow & Co is moving into a brand new building at the beginning of May. They will be hosting a two night comedy competition from the new space to give someone a chance to have a featured spot in an upcoming show. Sixteen comedians will perform the first night and three judges and the audience will decide who will make it to the second night, when the winners will be chosen.
2nd Annual Yellow & Co. Comedy Competition
Yellow & Co.
1830 Patton Dr.
Mahomet
F May 24th, 7 p.m.
$25 for all rounds